NATO Allies Train Ukrainian Troops on Leopard 2A4 Tanks in Poland.

Ukrainian tank crews are receiving essential training on the Leopard 2A4 main battle tank at a military training facility in Poland. Instructors from Poland and Norway are leading this training to enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Army in its defense against Russia. This effort is part of the European Union Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM UA). The objective is to make Ukrainian forces more self-sufficient in their military training.
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The Leopard 2A4 is an upgraded version of the original Leopard 2, featuring a fully digital fire control system, improved turret armor, and the ability to fire advanced kinetic energy and high-explosive anti-tank rounds(Picture source: Ukrainian 33RD Mechanized Brigade)

Since the beginning of Leopard 2A4 tank deliveries by NATO countries to Ukraine, the country has received several batches of these powerful tanks. Germany and the Netherlands have provided Ukraine with an additional 14 Leopard 2A4s, in addition to the 40 tanks already in service with Ukraine's 33rd Mechanized Brigade. Furthermore, Spain has authorized the transfer of 20 ex-Spanish army Leopard 2A4s, with 10 already shipped to Ukraine and 10 more to follow after repairs. At the end of July 2024, Denmark and the Netherlands announced the delivery of 14 Leopard 2A4s before the end of summer 2024. In total, this brings the number of Leopard 2A4s that Ukraine has received from its NATO allies to 88, enhancing its military capabilities against Russian forces.

WO Marcin Chrabąszcz of the Polish Army emphasized the importance of this support, noting the close ties between Poland and Ukraine and the strategic significance of Ukraine's victory for regional stability. A Norwegian Army instructor explained that the goal is to enable Ukrainians to train other soldiers independently.

The Leopard 2A4 is a main battle tank initially produced by Krauss-Maffei in Germany. It was introduced into service in the mid-1980s, with production starting in 1985. The Leopard 2A4 is an upgraded version of the original Leopard 2, featuring a fully digital fire control system, improved turret armor, and the ability to fire advanced kinetic energy and high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds. Its primary armament is a 120mm smoothbore gun, complemented by two 7.62mm machine guns. The tank is powered by a 1,500 horsepower MTU MB 873 Ka-501 diesel engine, providing excellent mobility with a top speed of 68 km/h on roads and an operational range of around 500 km.

In terms of capabilities, the Leopard 2A4 is renowned for its firepower, protection, and mobility. It has been widely exported and remains in service with several countries. The tank’s advanced targeting and fire control systems allow it to engage targets accurately while on the move, and its modular armor can be upgraded to enhance protection against modern threats. Recent updates indicate that countries such as Poland, Spain, and Norway have supplied Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine to bolster its defense capabilities against ongoing conflicts.

This initiative is part of NATO's broader support for Ukraine, reinforced by a recent pledge of 40 billion euros in military aid over the next year, announced at the Washington Summit. The comprehensive training includes both operational use and maintenance of the Leopard 2A4 tanks, ensuring that Ukrainian forces can sustain their equipment independently. The Leopard 2A4, known for its firepower, protection, and mobility, will significantly boost the combat effectiveness of Ukrainian tank crews.

The training mission also strengthens the bonds between NATO members and Ukraine, promoting greater cooperation and mutual support in addressing shared security challenges. By equipping Ukrainian forces with advanced skills and knowledge, NATO plays a crucial role in enhancing the resilience and readiness of Ukraine’s military.